A Skater’s Edge: “The competitive market of hockey skates”
Monday, July 26, 2004

Posted by GSH-Editor

By: Craig Kennedy

In the past, the market for hockey skates and hockey equipment in general was largely dominated by the likes of the powerhouse’s Bauer and CCM.

Nowadays with innovation constantly improving, many newcomers such as Graf, Mission, Easton, and Nike, have given the consumer much more to choose from. The question that many hockey players, fans and enthusiast continue to ask is: What separates one from the other?

Well, depending on how seriously you are involved in the sport of hockey, a skate is a piece of equipment that may range anywhere from a 1 to a 10 on the importance scale. Competitive hockey players will always look for a skate that is light in weight, durable, comfortable, protective, and all in all something that potentially will give them an edge, no pun intended. For the less competitive player, a skate may just be another part of your ensemble that you select because of comfort and pricing. Others go more so for the look, something catchy or flashy that will help them stand out amongst the crowd. Whatever the specs you may choose in a skate, the companies designing these steel strapped boots are constantly changing in order to meet your needs.

One company that continues to dominate this industry, is none other than Bauer. This corporate giant never seems to fail when it comes to designing a boot that will capture all the needs a hockey player may require. Offering a selection of different models, such as, the Impact series, the Pantera’s, the Supreme series, and last but especially not least is the Vapor series, Bauer does it all.

Bauer’s initial release of the Vapor SFL XX’s, had many NHLer’s eager to get their hands on a pair. The likes of Peter Forsberg, Joe Sacic, Eric Lindros, Marian Gaborick and Mike Fisher are just a few of the many who choose to sport these silver beauty’s. With the introduction of the new Tuuk Light Speed runners, a flex notch, PU coating, and its amazing patented H2 technology, Bauer has truly outdone themselves.

On a comfort level, the Bauer Vapor SFL XX’s are in a class of their own. It is suggested to have them heated to mold to your feet; however without even doing so they are as comfortable as the pair of big old, fuzzy crocodile slippers your grandma once gave you for Christmas. In other words they fit like a glove, and are as light as a feather. The dry grip liner on the interior keeps your foot secure from any moving about. Much like the superb comfort, the Bauer Vapor SFL XX’s, from a performance standpoint are remarkable to say the least. The light weight boot allows the skater to pick up their feet quickly after being at a standstill. Combine that with the new and improved innovative Tuuk Light Speed runner and you are set to dangle about your opponents.

Overall, choosing a skate is something that many players take seriously. Whether you are in favor of comfort, durability, design, or performance the skate industry is always looking to meet your needs. Finding that perfect fit may be difficult; however with so many companies joining the already competitive market, the consumer has plenty of selection.

Content received from: Gongshow Hockey, http://gongshowhockey.com